Infant primitive reflexes chart.

Primitive Reflexes

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements babies are born with. They help newborns survive and develop early movement patterns. These reflexes are supposed to fade (integrate) as a child grows.

If primitive reflexes don’t integrate on time, they can interfere with balance, posture, coordination, attention, and handwriting.

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Spinal Galant Reflex

  • What it is: Stroking the lower back causes the hips to wiggle or shift.
  • If retained: The child may squirm in their seat, constantly readjust posture, or be sensitive to touch around the waist.
  • In writing: Constant fidgeting makes it hard to sit still and focus.

Palmar Grasp Reflex

  • What it is: Touching the palm causes the fingers to close.
  • If retained: The child may grip the pencil too tightly or have poor fine motor control.
  • In writing: Hand fatigue, messy handwriting, or immature pencil grasp may occur.

Moro Reflex

  • What it is: A startle response to sudden movement, noise, or change in position.
  • If retained: The child may be jumpy, anxious, or overly reactive.
  • In writing: Easily startled, difficulty filtering sensory input, or trouble staying calm and focused.

ATNR (Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)

  • What it is: When the head turns to one side, the arm on that side stretches out, and the opposite arm bends.
  • If retained: Difficulty crossing midline, poor handwriting flow, or switching hands while writing.
  • In writing: Letters may drift on the page; the child may avoid turning their head while writing.

STNR (Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex)

  • What it is: Looking up causes arms to straighten and legs to bend; looking down does the opposite.
  • If retained: Poor posture while sitting, slumping, or “W†sitting.
  • In writing: The child may struggle to sit upright or switch between visual focus and hand movement smoothly.

TLR (Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex)

  • What it is: Tilting the head back extends the whole body; tucking the head under causes the body to curl.
  • If retained: Poor balance, low muscle tone, or difficulty with spatial awareness.
  • In writing: Trouble sitting upright or controlling posture for desk work.